Harrisburg's National Civil War Museum hires new leader

A Civil War historian and author from Adams County will take over the reins as chief executive officer at Harrisburg’s National Civil War Museum. Museum officials announced today that Wayne Motts, an Ohio native who has been executive director of the Adams County Historical Society in Gettysburg for the past eight years, will replace former museum CEO Dave Patterson, who retired in November. Motts’ start date has yet to be determined.

National Civil War MuseumCivil War expert Wayne Motts has been hired as the new chief executive officer for the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg.

Motts, who is also a licensed battlefield guide at Gettysburg National Military Park, was selected from a field of more than 100 candidates for the post, according to Paul B. Whipple, chairman of the museum’s board of directors. Whipple said Motts’ expertise about the Civil War and proven ability to secure financial support for historical organizations were major factors in the decision.

“Wayne Motts is a very knowledgeable, well-respected member of the Civil War community,” Whipple said, “and we believe his energy, enthusiasm and experience leading historical organizations will take the museum in innovative directions.”

Motts is the author of several works related to the Civil War, including “Trust in God and Fear Nothing,” a biography of Confederate Gen. Lewis A. Armistead, who was killed during the battle of Gettysburg

The Orrtanna resident has a bachelor’s degree in military history from the Ohio State University, and a master’s degree in American history from Shippensburg University. He and his wife, Tina, are the parents of one grown child. His father, Warren E. Motts, is founder and executive director of Motts Military Museum in Groveport, Ohio.

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